The 21-year-old’s agent, Thies Bliemeister, has now revealed that talks took place over a move to Old Trafford, with Bild reporting that Sir Alex Ferguson’s brother Martin -- who worked as the club’s chief European scout -- had been to watch Son on several occasions.

“Manchester United were also interested in him,” Bliemeister said. “We also held talks. Manchester also contacted HSV. The interest was a great honour for Son, but Leverkusen just made the best impression. And, as a transitional step, Bayer is ideal for his career.”

United, who face Leverkusen in the Champions League on Tuesday next week, endured a difficult summer in the transfer market, missing out on players including Cesc Fabregas, Thiago Alcantara, Daniele De Rossi, Sami Khedira and Ander Herrera.